The passage seems to argue
- (a) against the monopoly of builders and the interests of elite groups.
- (b) against the need for global and smart cities.
- (c) in favour of planning cities mainly for working class and poor people.
- (d) in favour of participation of peoples' groups in city planning. ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
["- The passage states that current city planning is 'distanced from people's live experiences and needs' and 'actively excluding large number of people'.", "- It criticizes the 'static Development Plan' for relying exclusively on 'technical expertise' rather than incorporating the input of citizens.", '- By highlighting the exclusion of people and the neglect of their interests, the author implies that city planning should include the voices and participation of these groups.', "- Therefore, the argument is in favor of involving people's groups in the planning process to make cities more livable and less intolerant.", "- This aligns with option (d), which advocates for the participation of people's groups in city planning."]
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) against the monopoly of builders and the interests of elite groups.
- The passage does not mention builders, elite groups, or their monopoly, focusing instead on the planning methodology and exclusion of the general public.
- (b) against the need for global and smart cities.
- The text does not discuss global cities or smart cities, but rather critiques the static nature of current development plans.
- (c) in favour of planning cities mainly for working class and poor people.
- While the passage mentions the neglect of working and poor people, it argues for inclusive participation of all excluded groups, not exclusively for the working class and poor.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2019, held on 2 June 2019. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.